TRW/Ball: Next Generation Space Telescope, NGST

摘要

The Next Generation Space telescope wil be the premier instrument for astrophysical research a decade from now. This paper describes the reference concept for the observatory being studied by a prime contractor team led by TRW and Ball Aerospace. We give an overview of the space segment of the mission, and the rationale for its heliocentric orbit at the SunEarth L2 Lagrangian point. At the time of this meeting many details of the engineerign design are still open for trade studies. We highlight af ew whose resolution will have implications for the scientific performance of the observatory, and for which preferences and recommendatiosn from the scientific community are welcomed.